What People Are Saying About The Transgender Military Ban

People across the country agree: anyone qualified and willing should be able to serve. Click through the videos below to learn why servicemembers, activists, and members of Congress stand with our transgender troops and against Trump’s cruel and discriminatory transgender military ban.

When I was bleeding to death in my Black Hawk helicopter after I was shot down, I didn’t care if the American troops risking their lives to help save me were gay, straight, trans, black, white or brown. All that mattered was they didn’t leave me behind.” Senator Tammy Duckworth, Illinois

“It’s time to send a clear message: this ban is shameful. It’s un-American. And we won’t stop fighting to overturn it.” Senator Elizabeth Warren, Massachusetts

“Both law and public opinion are on our side. We stand for equality and we are on the right side of history.”Representative Pramila Jayapal, Washington

“I’m going to do everything in my power to make sure that we have equality across the board for every single American.”Representative Deb Haaland, New Mexico

“Without caveat or condition, transgender American troops put their lives on the line for the benefit of us all every single day.” Representative Joe Kennedy III, Massachusetts

“I proudly stand with trans service members who honor us by putting themselves in dangerous situations – and they do so because they love this country.” Representative James McGovern, Massachusetts

“I believe anyone who loves America and has the courage to serve should be given that opportunity and respected for it.” Representative Jared Golden, Maine

“The transgender military ban has no place in our country.”
House Majority Whip James Clyburn, South Carolina

“I serve to ensure that the freedoms gifted to me by all of those who fought for our nation’s highest ideals are passed on to future generations.”
Lieutenant Colonel, USAF Bryan (Bree) Fram

“If we’re willing to put our lives on the front line for this country, this country should then be willing to do right by us as trans people and support us for who we are authentically.”
Founder, Trans People of Color Coalition Kylar Broadus

“We see ourselves as a battle buddy, we’re always there for each other. Being ready has nothing to do with the fact that we’re trans.”
United States Veteran Reserve Corps, Karen Kendra Holmes

“Why do I serve? Out of love. Love for my country. Love for my fellow Americans. I love being able to put on my uniform and be part of something bigger than myself every single day.”
Staff Sergeant, USAF Tamar Billiet

“The ban has affected our family by taking away our peace of mind. I witnessed my partner, the man I admire for his commitment to the Air Force, being humiliated for being himself.”
Dr. Eunice Aviles and USAF Veteran Dana Delgardo